It is believed he took a recreational drug thought to be MDMA, Devon Live reported.

Police have warned people not to take unknown substances and are investigating whether there is a tainted batch of the drug in the area after two young adults were taken to hospital in a separate incident.

One of the pair remain in a serious condition after taking a substance at a house party in Plymouth – it is believed they also took MDMA.

The teenager died at North Devon District Hospital (Picture: Google)

Writing on Facebook, Ilfracombe police said: ‘Officers are currently investigating the circumstances of this incident but in the meantime we would urge the public, especially those planning on going out socialising today to be aware of this incident and think twice before taking any unknown substance.

‘There is always a risk when taking substances and the only way of staying safe is to avoid drugs altogether.’